Northrop Grumman announces electronic systems support facility for Western Sydney

Northrop Grumman’s Electronics Sustainment Centre of Excellence will be able to support sensors and EW systems such as those on the RAAF’s EA-18G Growlers. (Paul Sadler)

Northrop Grumman has announced it is investing $50 million in the development of an electronic systems maintenance and sustainment centre in Western Sydney.

The Electronics Sustainment Centre of Excellence initially will begin operations at RAAF Base Richmond before ultimately being located at the forthcoming Western Sydney Airport at Badgerys Creek, where Northrop Grumman will be the anchor tenant for an aerospace and defence industry precinct there.

The new centre will support advanced electronics such as communications systems, electronic warfare equipment and targeting pods. It could include capabilities to support the maintenance, repair and upgrade of electronic systems fitted to a range of RAAF aircraft such as the C-130J Hercules, EA-18G Growler, F-35A Lightning II, MQ-4C Triton and P-8A Poseidon.

Northrop Grumman will also establish partnerships with Australian universities and training institutions to help train the skilled workforce needed for the centre.

It is yet to be announced when the new centre is due to begin operations.

Northrop Grumman International President Dave Perry speaks at the launch of his company’s Electronics Sustainment Centre of Excellence.